Rhizophora mangle is native to the Americas and west Africa; it was introduced to Hawaii early in the 20th century for erosion control and has become invasive there. The species is particularly susceptible to freezing temperatures, which limit the northern (and southern) extent of its range. In Florida, it is found on the immediate Atlantic and Gulf seacoasts north to Saint Johns County at almost 30° north latitude (W. B. Zomlefer et al. 2006). K. C. Cavanaugh et al. (2014) determined that its abundance has increased significantly at the northern edge of the range, likely due to a decline in the frequency of severe cold events. Rhizophora mangle has recently become established along the Texas coast, presumably also as a result of a warming climate (P. A. Montagna et al. 2011).

Seedling propagules may float in the ocean and remain viable for up to a year before reaching a suitable substrate where they resume growth. Propagules occasionally wash ashore and become temporarily established north of its range (to North Carolina), but plants do not currently survive long-term (A. S. Weakley 2012). Records from the Florida panhandle are also assumed to be temporarily established plants (B. Hansen, pers. comm.).